Ocean Front Kitchen
About
Pacific Views and Local Flavors on the Hilo Waterfront
Sitting right along the rugged coastline of Hilo, Ocean Front Kitchen offers a front-row seat to the dramatic power of the Pacific. This is the spot where the salt air mingles with the scent of searing garlic, and the sound of waves crashing against the black volcanic rock provides a constant, rhythmic soundtrack to your meal.
A Relaxed Hilo Experience
The atmosphere leans heavily into the laid-back, unpretentious spirit of East Hawaii. Expect open-air seating where the trade winds keep things breezy, even on humid afternoons. It is an ideal stop for locals grabbing a quick bite after a morning surf or travelers looking to soak up the Hilo scenery without the formality of a white-tablecloth establishment. The space is simple, letting the expansive blue horizon do all the decorating.
Island-Inspired Bites
The menu highlights the bounty of the Big Island, focusing on fresh-caught fish preparations that change based on what the local fleet brings in each morning. You will often find classics like crispy poke bowls or seared mahimahi drizzled with citrus-forward local glazes. For those who want something hearty, the kitchen excels at traditional plate lunch portions that lean into local comfort food.
A quick note for those planning a visit: the parking lot is compact and can get quite busy during the lunch rush. It is often worth parking a short walk away to enjoy the stroll along the scenic Hilo Bay frontage. Come for the view, stay for the honest, straightforward cooking that defines this corner of the island.
Photos
Location
555 Kalanianaole Ave Suite A, Hilo, Hawaii, 96720-4751
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Reviews
Showing 6 of 6 community reviewsLisa AustinGoogle Maps
Recently
There were nine of us and we got different plates and everyone loved their food! Found my BbQ chicken plate with Mac salad and it was amazing!
RoseGoogle Maps
Recently
Delicious hole-in-the-wall spot. Got their garlic shrimp and lemon chicken. Very flavorful! Friendly staff and great service.
A HGoogle Maps
Recently
We were looking for Chinese food on Chinese New Year 2/17/26 and landed at Ocean Front Kitchen. We ordered teriyaki beef and fried mahi combo, eggplants with tofu, house crispy noodles which came with shrimp, chicken, cha shu and vegetables. All were delicious and came in generous portion. The owners were really friendly and helpful. It was a great find on Chinese New Year day. Go there if you want to eat like locals for some tasty authentic Chinese food.
Amber LGoogle Maps
Recently
Delicious food! We got the garlic shrimp plate and katsu chicken and both were prepared so quickly and very tasty. The chicken wings were just okay. Prices were very reasonable for Hilo - we spent $45 on two huge plates and wings and a water! They have two tables instead so take out is preferred. The small parking lot fills up fast
Subhasish BhattacharyaGoogle Maps
Recently
A hole in the wall with friendly staff. It’s conveniently located, with parking and on DoorDash. I was able to get a veg/egg options. Portions were generous, price reasonable, and service prompt.
michael demoinGoogle Maps
Recently
Nice little hole in the wall place. Family owned. Food is amazing. We stopped by and a local was raving about this place as we walked by. So we just had to stop in. Use cash and leave a tip to support this family! 🙏 We ordered the garlic chicken. It comes with white rice and a macaroni salad. It was so good the garlic chicken was perfectly cooked lightly breaded but not soggy and amazingly flavorful. I also had the crab rangoons and omg they were the best rangoons of my life. Most places skimp on the crab not this place the seafood flavor was abundant and you could see the chunks. So good and perfectly fried. If you are stopping by from the cruise port this is the best place to go on the way to the beach!
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Frequently Asked Questions about Ocean Front Kitchen
Common questions from diners about Ocean Front Kitchen in Hilo.
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